Central Art Periods in Norway
This is an overview of artistic epochs and their most prominent artists for the past 200 years. Many of the works of these artist are accessible in museums in Norway, most of them found in the National Gallery in Oslo.
Romanticism (19th century)
Romanticism was an art period that emphasized emotions, nature, and the sublime. It originated from Germany and England, with renowned artists like Caspar David Friedrich and J.M.W. Turner. In Norway, J.C. Dahl was one of the foremost representatives, known for his landscape paintings capturing the majesty of Norwegian nature. Another significant artist was Harriet Backer, who depicted intimate interior scenes with masterful use of light and shadow.
- J.C. Dahl
Johan Christian Dahl is considered one of the first great Norwegian landscape painters. His work "From Stalheim" showcases the dramatic Norwegian scenery and his ability to capture the light and atmosphere of the landscape.
- Harriet Backer
Harriet Backer was a pioneer among female artists in Norway, known for her indoor paintings with outstanding lighting. Her work "Blue Interior" is a fantastic example of her technical skills and proficiency in depicting the tranquility of everyday life.
Realism (mid-19th century)
Realism aimed to depict reality as it was, without idealization. The period emerged in France with artists like Gustave Courbet and Jean-François Millet. In Norway, Christian Krohg was a leading figure, known for his realistic portrayals of everyday life. Kitty Kielland also contributed with her landscape paintings, often focusing on marshlands and coastlines.
- Christian Krohg
Christian Krohg was one of the most influential realist painters in Norway. His work "Albertine at the Police Doctor's Waiting Room" is a powerful social commentary painting that shows his commitment to the marginalized in society.
- Kitty Kielland
Kitty Kielland was among the first female landscape painters in Norway, particularly known for her depictions of the Jæren marshlands. Her painting "Moonlight" is a gripping example of her ability to capture the evocative light of nature.
Impressionism (late 19th century)
Impressionism focused on capturing the fleeting effects of light and movement. It originated in France with artists like Claude Monet and Edgar Degas. In Norway, Frits Thaulow was a prominent impressionist, known for his landscape paintings. Oda Krohg, another important figure, often depicted everyday life and portraits with a fresh and vibrant palette.
- Frits Thaulow
Frits Thaulow was a master at capturing the movement of water and the play of light in his landscape paintings. His work "Akerselva" shows how he used impressionistic techniques to create lively and dynamic scenes.
- Oda Krohg
Oda Krohg was a central figure in the Norwegian bohemian scene and is known for her portraits and interior paintings. Her work "Portrait of Hans Jæger" showcases her ability to capture personality and mood with a lively brushstroke.
Expressionism (early 20th century)
Expressionism emphasized expressing inner feelings and angst through distorted forms and bold colors. It originated in Germany with artists like Edvard Munch and Ernst Ludwig Kirchner. In Norway, Edvard Munch is undoubtedly the most famous expressionist, known for his iconic work "The Scream." Another notable artist is Ragnhild Keyser, who contributed to the expressionist movement with her intense and colorful compositions.
- Edvard Munch
Edvard Munch is known for his deeply emotional paintings that often explore themes of love, anxiety, and death. His work "The Scream" is one of the most iconic paintings in art history and a powerful expression of human angst.
- Ragnhild Keyser
Ragnhild Keyser was a prominent Norwegian expressionist who used intense colors and dynamic compositions to express her emotions. Her painting "Composition" showcases her ability to create energy and movement on the canvas.
Contemporary Art (late 20th century to today)
Contemporary art is characterized by a diversity of styles and media, from abstract art to installations. It has roots in many countries and includes a range of international artists. In Norway, Marianne Heske is a central figure, known for her video works and installations. Bjarne Melgaard is another significant contemporary artist, known for his provocative and often controversial works.
- Marianne Heske
Marianne Heske is a pioneer in Norwegian contemporary art, known for her experimental video works and installation art. Her "Gjerdeløa" is an iconic work that combines nature and technology in a unique way.
- Bjarne Melgaard
Bjarne Melgaard is known for his expressive and often controversial artworks that challenge social norms and boundaries. His paintings and installations explore themes such as identity, sexuality, and social critique with a raw and direct style.